Amazon Launches “Amazon Destinations” Travel Site

Online retail giant Amazon has caught the travel bug, and last night rolled out a new site called Amazon Destinations which offers the unique service of helping customers find “getaway destinations” within driving distance of their homes. Because more than 40% of all U.S. domestic leisure trips are short-term getaways of less than three nights, and usually to nearby, driveable destinations, Amazon saw an opportunity for a service dedicated to this behaviour. Currently, Amazon Destinations features hotel selections in three U.S. metro areas — L.A., New York and Seattle — and while there are no immediate plans to expand to other cities, it would make sense in the future if it finds traction with the initial rollout.